uVinyl Decorating

I'm a Mormon Decal/ Sticker

2012-03-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

I'm a Mormon.

And I'm really proud of that!

I have been really interested in missionary work throughout my life, and have seen many miracles happen to myself and others through missionary work. Now, as an adult, I find missionary work harder and harder to do. I've served a mission and understand that gospel and can discuss it in a whole new way, but that doesn't do me much good when I'm hardly ever around people who aren't already LDS!

So, with the encouragement of our local missionaries and my own conscience, I decided it was time to think outside of the box to tell others of the faith I believe in so firmly.

Why not use my own business and materials at home to make a car decal that will tell people I'm Mormon every time I go for a drive?!

I found the motivation to make these decals when I was asked to be one of three RM speakers at a tri-ward youth activity on missionary work. People of all ages like to get free stuff, right? so I made a ton of both "I'm a Mormon" and "Mormon.org" decals for the youth to take with them after my talk. I think they really liked them, and I was really glad for the "excuse" to finally put one on my own car!

I love the new clean, modern, inviting look of the recent Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints PR campaign:

These are buttons for blogs or other websites found on www.mormon.org

I love the fun colors and inviting design!

Using those as inspiration, I made my own design:

I love the bold font, modern design of the ".org", and using lower-case letters to be more modern and friendly.

What do you think?

I've started selling these in my Etsy store (on the right) for the cost of postage and Etsy selling fees, as my way to help others promote our faith and tell my customers that they are buying from an LDS woman! I'm hoping it will at least spark someone to message me asking what that decal is all about :)

If you are interested in getting a lot of these for your own missionary class or promotional materials (I plan to make another bath to give away at my next RS lesson) just message me on Etsy and I will only charge for more shipping!

Find the decals here.

Etched Glass LOVE Picture Frame

2012-02-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

You should all know by now how crazy I am for etched glass. It is so beautiful, easy, and inexpensive. What's not to love?

I find myself constantly seeing glass objects around and wondering if I could etch them. In order to prevent my house from getting over run with our initials (I don't think there's anything more beautiful!), I limit myself to etching projects at holidays only.

In preparation for Valentine's Day (my favorite! I love celebrating love!) I actually woke up in the middle of the night with the idea of etching a picture frame with the word "LOVE" and adding a picture behind it.

I tried to find similar things on Google Images, but nothing showed up. So I decided to make my own mock-up to try and envision my project:

I used this picture of my husband and I in our wedding clothes that my SIL, Betsy, took of us in their hometown of Petoskey, MI. I've always loved the shots of us on top of a train!

My Design:

The process:

Unfortuanately, the etching wasn't as dark as I'd hoped.

The difference between the etched and non-etched isn't strong enough

to really put a picture behind :(

Or maybe I'm still looking for that perfect picture to show in just the right places :)

Good luck trying your own!

Bushel and a Peck Board

2012-02-02T13:41:00.000-08:00

Hello, folks!

A few weeks ago I saw this item on Etsy:

{I love you a bushel and a peck sign board}

I immediately fell in love with it and put it in my idea box of "Things I know I can make instead of buying them." (I have included a link to buy the board, though, if you're more interested in buying it than making it.)

I love the song it shows, and I love the idea of 3D piece of personalized art, so I knew this was a great idea!

A group of friends got together and all made one one day. Here is our {very} easy process:

Supplies:
*Wood board
*Vinyl lettering
*Craft paint
*Paint brush

Instructions:

Cut and prepare vinyl the regular old way...

Paint wood block...

{We bought a length of wood at Home Depot that was stair top. It measured 12" x 4',

so we cut it into 4 equal squares. The wood was only $6! Perfect. They can cut the sizes you need

at the store if you don't want to do that part at home.}

I wanted my board to have a natural, whitewash sort of look so I dribbled white paint directly

onto the board then used a wet foam brush to distribute it unevenly.

Add the vinyl to the board after the paint dries....

I added an extra step of spreading a clear coat over the top of the board so the shiny vinyl would blend in better. Other variations would be to sand over the vinyl for a distressed look, or use matte vinyl.

Ta-da!!

These are a few of the combos we all made. I happen to love the look of some many different colors together! I think one day I'll make a wall of these in different sizes, colors, and quotes. :)

I made mine in bright colors so it could go in an empty nook of our dark-ish living room. I love the surprise of seeing something where you don't expect it, and the colors are a fantastic contrast the room!

It was so fun, so EASY, and only $4! Plus, imagine the possibilities... a child's full name for a nursery, other family quotes or songs for a picture wall... it's endless!

So go have fun with it :)

Scarf GIVEAWAY

2011-11-27T18:59:00.000-08:00

*GIVEAWAY ends Friday, December 2, at 12 pm EST.*

Hey Everyone!

Of course, I typically post about my own vinyl projects, but today I'm sharing something new. Something I love, which I'm sure you'll love!

My sister-in-law, Sarah, is one of the most stylish, clever, crafty women I know, and she has started posting her amazing creations and ideas on her blog, The Winthrop Chronicles.

Some of the things she blogs about:

{DIY kids style}

{Sewing projects}

{Home decor + Upcycling}

One of her recent posts was a tutorial on sewing infinity scarves, which I am completely in love with

{Scarves are a giant weakness of mine...}

As a personal favor, she is offering a giveaway on her blog to one of our followers for their own amazing scarf!

{Who couldn't use a beautiful, free personal accessory or gift this holiday season?}

{Personally, I love the one with the argyle pattern!}

Giveaway Rules:

1) Follow The Winthrop Chronicles and this blog

2) Comment on The Winthrop Chronicles with your favorite of the four scarves in the image above

3) Tweet, Facebook, Pinterest, or re-blog this giveaway for an additional entry! Just leave a second comment saying how you've spread the word!

On Friday, Dec. 2 Sarah will pick the winner randomly from the comments on her giveaway post.

The winner will be announced on both blogs Friday afternoon!

Good luck!

Monogrammed $1 Store Vase

2011-11-23T06:05:00.000-08:00

I am in charge of activities for our Relief Society's Christmas Craft Day this year, and I had lot of fun thinking up inexpensive, beautiful, meaning items for the women.

One thing I knew I wanted to create for them was a monogrammed vase using etched glass (if you've been reading recently, you'll know I am currently obsessed with etched glass!) What better way to do etching than on a vase-- it looks so sophisticated and elegant-- just like whatever goes inside the vase!

I got this little gem from the Dollar Store!

(My favorite place to peruse for ideas. There is so much potential there.)

Apply the stencil and Armor Etch etching creme:

Allow the creme to sit for 5 full minutes and wash off completely

(Be sure to get inside all the lines. It likes to congregate there just to annoy you.)

Starting to peel off the vinyl stencil to reveal the etching is my favorite part...

Isn't it beautiful??!?!?!?!?!?!

And, so far, the Relief Society women love it!

Homemade Scrabble Tiles for the Wall

2011-11-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

I recently saw this picture...

And immediately put it into my Pinterest board: "Things I Know I Can Make Myself."

And, Guess what? I DID!

And, best part: IT WAS REALLY EASY!

I'm re-decorating our guest room/ office right now, and this fun Scrabble-style word will be front and center on the wall. I'll post a picture later of the final view, but I just couldn't wait until the room was ready to try this awesome craft!

Supplies:

I knew I wanted thin, flat, pieces of natural wood

(the best part of this project is that scrabble tiles are natural wood, so there is no extra

painting involved for the authentic look!).

The pieces I found were perfect-- 6 x 4 inches, thin and flat, and only $1/each from Hobby Lobby!

I also needed to make a template of the scrabble letters:

I found a useful image of the Scrabble alphabet, then used it to match fonts and numbers!

Now let the crafting begin...

Four more letters later....

Now wasn't that easy? Hmmmmm?

I am so happy with my new, classic-looking, $5 craft!

Go pick your favorite word and make your own scrabble tiles!

Personalized Etched Glass Cookie Jar!

2011-11-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

I made this quick, easy, beautiful personalized etched glass cookie jar to celebrate a good friend's birthday. I don't etch glass too often, which is a shame because it is so beautiful! This was a new idea for me: etching one side and adding a vinyl overlay. I absolutely LOVE how it turned out, and can't stop thinking about what else I can etch + overlay!

I am just crazy about this personalized cookie jar!

I want to make one for myself now :)

I really hope you make one that you can enjoy just as much!

New Boy Onesie Designs

2011-07-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

I recently found out I'm having a baby girl (yay!), and most people's first reaction to the news is,

"Oh good. Girl clothes are way cuter than boy clothes."

I know my sister has had a hard time finding something fun and cute for her 3-yr-old son, but, really, is it that much harder?

Well, I take that as a challenge. My [other] sister is pregnant with a boy and one of my good friends' son just turned 1, so I had a great time coming up with cool boy onesies.

So here is my new collection of awesome boy onesies:

b.o.w.t.i.e. o.n.e.s.i.e.

I couldn't find a good image of an untied bowtie for a casual bowtie design,

so I had to make one myself!

I vectored a bowtie image...

Cut the image out of black heat transfer vinyl...

Cut the decal in half and arranged it how I wanted around the neck of the onesie...

And oila!

I love this design!

(How would it look in hot pink for my new baby girl...?)

p.e.r.s.o.n.a.l.i.z.e.d. b.a.r.c.o.d.e. o.n.e.s.i.e.

I love the barcode onesie. I used a font that is a set of barcode lines with each letter,

so there is a custom barcode image for any word I type.

I think this is the perfect modern personalized onesie!

m.u.s.t.a.c.h.e. o.n.e.s.i.e.

After seeing mustaches E.V.E.R.Y.W.H.E.R.E. I decided to add some to my store.

I designed this mustache pillowcase set , then decided it would make an awesome onesie!

a.v.i.a.t.o.r. o.n.e.s.i.e.

The Aviator Onesie.

'Nuff said.

I actually made this in pink for a friend's niece, and it turned out great, too!

I love designing baby clothes!

I am seriously debating starting my own onesie store or something...

Mustache Silhouette Pillowcase Set

2011-07-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

My mom, the director of an extensive program at her college, ordered 250 pillowcases from me with the program's logo/quote on them. She has me in the "pillowcase frame of mind" now, and, since heat-transfer is my NEW FAVORITE thing, I love getting new inspiration for projects!

So, inspiration found...

Introducing my newest creation:

the mustache silhouette pillowcase!

This set of two pillowcases has a half of the mustache

measuring 12" out on each 250 thread count

pillowcase to make a whole mustache pillowcase.

Mustaches are the hottest new decor/ fashion item... Just yesterday I saw a collection of lip hair on a cloth wallet at Target!

Now this pillowcase set is the easiest way to add that fashion flare to any room.

Ha Ha... I think it's so cool!

If you're interested in ordering a set, go to this link to purchase through Etsy.com.

Make Your Own FHE Chart!

2011-06-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I hometeach a family of recent converts who asked for some help in conducting Family Home Evening in their home. Wow... of course!

He prepared a lesson and I was in charge of an activity. I decided to make them an FHE chart that they could decorate themselves and use throughout the week to remind them of the steps of having Family Home Evening.

I only decided to make this about two hours before we were supposed to go see them, so, believe me, this is a quick one!

Materials:
* Round wooden circle ($.99 from Hobby Lobby)
* Wooden stars or other shape ($1.99 for 5 at Hobby Lobby)
* Craft paint
* Paint Brush
* Magnets
* Hot Glue
* Ribbon
* Vinyl words

Follow the pictures!

I chose to paint the pieces white so they could be drawn on.

Other colors would look great, too!

I decided to use the font "Girls Are Weird" for the chart.

It is so fun!

Since there are only three members of their family, I split the FHE chores into

three categories. You can make a larger back board and have more chores

if there are more people in your family!

When you hot glue the magnets to the board and the stars, make sure you

glue the right sides down!

Turn the back board over and use the hot glue to attach a string

for hanging.

You can also add some drops of hot glue to the other sides of the board

so it won't scratch the walls!

They had so much fun decorating their own stars!

Once the stars were finished, we added their names in

vinyl to the front.
Make sure the marker dries first, or the vinyl won't stick!

The finished product!

It felt so wonderful to make something that could help someone else come closer to the Lord and their family members. I really hope they enjoy it, and get in the habit of using it every week!

This was so quick, fun to make, and easy to personalize.

I will definitely make one for my own family once it gets a little bigger!

"Eat More Pears" iPad decal goes viral!

2011-05-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody!

Someone made a link to digg.com and reddit.com (social bookmarking websites) for my iPad decal, "Eat more pears"!

The way these social news websites works is that anyone can create an account and post something, but the more people that view it and "like" it makes it more public. The more public a post becomes, the better!

Would you all do me a favor and go to those websites and click the green thumbs up button?

Or click the "Digg" button beside the photo...

It would be so cool if it become a highly viewed item!!!

digg.com

reddit.com

Thanks, everyone!

A vinyl welcome to a new family addition!

2011-05-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

My newest niece, Elly Brynn, was born last week! It took her parents a while to decide on a name for her, and I immediately set to work on a lightning-strike idea for a onesie with a monogram on it!

My sister-in-law is so classy and beautiful, and I know she wants her first baby girl to dress that way, too. These were created with Sarah and Baby Elly in mind!

(All onesies shown are available in my Etsy store here!)

The monogram

(Not just for car windows anymore)

The Photographer

(Camera onesie... perfect)

The Bow

(A onesie baby can wear to church!)

I absolutely LOVE these onesies. I especially love that they have personality! My SIL was pretty excited for them, too, which is what really matters!

Congratulations on the beautiful baby girl, Sarah!

Stained Glass Using Etching Cream!

2011-04-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

I only recently learned that you can use vinyl decals as a stencil for making your own stained glass.

What rock have I been living under?!?!

Stained glass can be expensive and time consuming to custom order, but this process is so easy and beautiful that it may just be my new favorite vinyl project (next to custom onesies, that is)!

This is the magic cream that makes it all happen... available at most craft stores.

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Wash off cream COMPLETELY.

The staining occurs as a chemical reaction between the cream and the glass, so no cream should remain after 5 minutes-- the stain has already taken place!

Don't they turn out great?

So here's my advice: Go buy some etching cream and start staining glass RIGHT... NOW!

New Onesies

2011-03-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have new babies being born all around me. This past week I was able to make some new designs for three new mommies!

It was the perfect time to test-drive my new pink heat-transfer vinyl.

This vinyl is called EasyWeed, and you can tell from the pictures that it is true to its name! The extra vinyl pulled away from the cut design in one smooth ribbon, leaving a perfect decal despite all the detail.

It irons on in about 20 seconds, and pulls away clean and easy.

Can you be in love with a heat-transfer vinyl? Because I think I am....

And my newest boy onesie! My friend, Brittney, had her baby boy 3 months early. The little guy was born at just over 1 lb, and will be in the NICU for about 3 months. She says he is a fighter and is developing despite his size, so I wanted to give her some rock star onesies. What is stronger than that?!

I think making onesies is one of my favorite things about my vinyl business. Learning how to embroider adds another dimension to it that I just love! Ideally I think I'd open a custom onesie store :)

This is just too much fun! I don't even have my own kids, but I promise they will be the most uniquely dressed babies ever!

La Cage Aux Folles. AKA "The Birdcage."

2011-03-05T11:15:00.000-08:00

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Yes, I love La Cage Aux Folles, and I also love antique furniture, and I ALSO love birds. So why did it take so long for me to create a silhouette birdcage and bird?!?!?!

For one thing, I have re-decorated our living room a total of FOUR (4) times! Can you believe it? I'm not nuts (about this, anyway), it's just sort of an akward room that hasn't adopted any of the personalities I've given it. I realized after a while that the things I've been acquiring for that room are more nature-comes-indoors.

We have a tree trunk table,

a table made from an old window-pane,

blue walls, brown furniture, wood floors,

and a nature motif on our mantle.

So I got pretty excited when the idea finally hit me to design an old-fashioned birdcage.

I had the perfect spot :)

The new shelf and birdcage break up this awkward long wall so well!

Plus, it was so much easier to design than I expected : )

That's what professionals call a "Win-Win"

The finished product!

Just one thing... Ben hasn't seen it yet. This is the third time he's come home to a makeover! Why do I feel the need to surprise re-decorate?!

Custom Iron-On Transfers!

2011-03-01T13:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my 1-yr-old niece, Eliza!

I love using my vinyl cutter to design iron-on transfers, and asked my sister if there were something in particular she'd want ... just in case she got a ... t-shirt... for her birthday :)

Well, she want's Eliza animal to be the elephant, but hasn't been able to find cute elephant clothes.

Aunt/ Vinyl Designer to the rescue!

I went to three consignment stores within a few miles of my house, but couldn't find any plain color 12 mo. t's until the last one! How frustrating! I had to tell the owner what I was looking for, and she showed me where to find what I wanted. I explained the project and my business, and she was really excited about it. I think there might be a huge market for custom iron-on decals!

I know I love to wear something I've designed personally-- it allows me to show my personality so much more.

So this is what I came up with for her birthday, and I think she likes it! (Well, her mom likes it, and that's really what matters, right?)

Love you, Eliza-Bug!

Custom Vinyl Order

2011-02-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I designed and distributed some marketing materials. It was a long effort, but I absolutely loved the final result and even got an order the same day! Woo Hoo! From me to you: Marketing Works.

I was asked to do a custom order for Tom, a design he had in mind to re-produce on his bike:

He wanted the GRAVE DIGGER logo and some flames. So I made his order by cutting the red outline, then the white letters, and added the letters on top of the background.

He liked the final product so much that he sent me a check and a note asking for duplicate decals for the other side of the bike!

This is what I love about vinyl. It is a fun materials that allows me to work with the creativity of others.
Woot woot!

If you have any random thoughts that would look great in vinyl, let me know! I love to work with people!

Design Secrets: The Power of Three

2011-02-10T18:12:00.000-08:00

Hello, design world!

I will be adding a new series of posts to the blog, Design Secrets, to help answer some questions I've been e-mailed about basic design. I love the questions, I have been there (recently) myself, so keep them coming! I hope you enjoy it!

The Power of T.H.R.E.E.

When decorating with knick-knacks, there are some basic, yet effective rules to follow:

#1: Display similar items in groups of odd numbers. Groups of even numbers look too patterned and organized, which can make you feel uptight or uncomfortable. By contrast, odd numbers are more easily interpreted by the eye, so sets of odd numbers can be very calming and balance a space. Nature is the general rule of thumb: nothing is ever even in nature, so try to keep your house as "natural" and balanced as possible... without looking forced.

In our house, we have a wall that is covered from side to side with built-in bookshelves. The wall is separated into three sections of shelves-- an basic architectural element. These bookshelves were one of the reasons I put my foot down that this was the house for us: I love to read, and had almost enough books to fill the end two sides of the bookshelves with books. But what to do with the center shelving unit? I decided that would be the perfect spot to display some sets of the beautiful china we received as a wedding gift from my new parents-in-law.

I put the china in sets of three on each shelf, with cups and saucers in-between each setting to create the most appealing look: Three (3) china plates stand out, but there are five (5) pieces when you step back.

This grouping and display of our china does calm and please me, and add balance to the wall and our Dining Room.

So remember, always decorate in groupings of odd numbers!

Valentine's Day Vinyl Decor

2011-02-02T07:34:00.000-08:00

My sweet sister wanted to spruce up the home for V-Day to show her young family how much she loves them. She had this great idea for Valentine's Day vinyl, and I helped her make it happen! That's what I love about collaborating.... I just can't always think of these things myself ;)

Aren't they such a beautiful family?!?!?!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!!

Doorway Makeover

2011-01-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

I got the itch today to do some decorating...

Susannah's translation: ADD SOME VINYL!

I knew I wanted some sort of 'welcome' or 'home' sign above the front door, so I looked online at my store for some inspiration.

I really loved this name monogram:

But I thought a welcome sign like this would be more appropriate over the door:

So I put on my thinking cap and combined the two designs!

Here's how I did it:

It is exactly what our front doorway needed. Amazing how something simple that I designed and whipped up in 15 minutes can help something really feel like home.

Welcome!

Anyone can receive a free decal!

2011-01-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

Hello! Welcome!

Thanks for stopping by the idea blog for uVinyl Decorating-- a place where people who appreciate vinyl decals can come together.

In fact...

I've recently designed some new promotional materials, and am looking for people interested in vinyl to distribute them to!

If you're interested in receiving a FREE VINYL DECAL in a fashionable design and some information on vinyl decals, simply send your mailing address to our business account: info@uvinyl.com. You're address will NOT be sold or re-distributed!

We truly appreciate the opportunity to spread the vinyl love, and connect with all of you who love it, too!

Conversation Magnets

2011-01-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

I just love finding new uses for vinyl! The idea for conversation magnets just struck me today, and I had S.O.M.U.C.H.F.U.N. designing and making them!

Materials:

1 roll of 1" magnet tape
Vinyl words of your choice
Scrapbook paper
Scissors

Directions:

1. Cut out vinyl words

2. Unwrap the sticker from the magnet tape, and apply the sticky side of tape to the edge of the scrapbook paper.

I chose three different, coordinating pieces of paper just for fun :)

3. Apply the cut words to the magnet strip

Look at that!

4. Add to fridge and oila!

I had so much fun making these and arranging them in different sayings to surprise Ben when he came home. When he did, he immediately started playing with them, too, and rearranged them all to say "I love my wife" "Susannah forever" etc. How sweet?!?!

But in the end....

I win :)

These were so fun and E.A.S.Y. and I.N.E.X.P.E.N.S.I.V.E. to make that I sat down and made five other sets for a friend who just got married and my sisters :)

Just spreading the V-day love!

Newest item- Vinyl telephone!

2011-01-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love the look of this old-fashioned phone silhouette! It is the perfect size for our guest room nightstand, and adds such an interesting, classy touch.

It was as easy as finding an image I like, and applying it to the right spot on the wall! Couldn't be easier, or more satisfying.

This is what I love about using vinyl... It is just so easy, so transformative...

So fun!

If you're interested in adding this vinyl telephone to your house but don't have your own cutter, order it here!

Using vinyl as wallpaper!

2011-01-14T06:54:00.000-08:00

When we first moved in, the rooms of our house were B.O.R.I.N.G. Something had to be done.

Read on for how I created this:

Step 1, painting stripes!

1. I taped a line from the base of our windows around the room, and painted everything from the tape down in light sea green.

2. After it dried, I kept that line of tape on and taped from it to the ground every 8 in. (I chose 8" so I could still use a paint roller... lazy, but nice.)

3. In every other 8 in. section I painted a dark, glossy sea green (it was the painter's suggestion I use one color matte and the other color glossy, and it was so great!)

It was so easy! It took some patience and care, but it was finished in just a couple hours!

Before

After!

Step 2, Add some personality!

I had recently seen a lot of decorating TV shows use vinyl to cut out custom images and words to create a beautiful wallpaper effect

The inspiration:

But I wanted something a little more personal....

The creation:

I decided to put multiple quotes on our wall! We both love words, reading, music, scriptures, etc., so I wanted our bedroom to be more personal and romantic by adding quotes from some our favorite love songs and my favorite scripture in coordinating colors (I thought silver, lavender, and yellow would match the green well, and it does!) across from our bed.

I love it!

I also added a headboard for our bed in the same lavender color, just as an experiment. It's been up ever since, though, because it was easy as pie and looks so darn great!

Oh the things you can do with some imagination and a vinyl cutter!

Do you just LOVE yours?

Website Woes...

2011-01-13T05:50:00.000-08:00

I love you all. That's why I feel close enough to complain a little.

First of all, I L.O.V.E.M.Y.B.U.SI.N.E.S.S. I love designing and cutting vinyl, decorating and redecorating, and reaching out to people who appreciate the same things. I love being my own boss, answering to my own timeline and creativity, and, let's face it: making all the decisions and keeping all the pride and joy.

I also happen to be a perfectionist, and very used to achieving my desired results (sometimes after lots of hard work and determination).

But when it comes to designing my own store website for uVinyl, I am totally flustered!

My wonderful brother-in-law, an educator, helped me get started on a website after buying my own domain name and hosting, but after I got antsy with it he suggested I learn how to do it myself so I can "teach myself to design". I completely agreed, and love the idea of knowing the software enough to change it on my own whim.

It took me over a week of researching hosting sites to realize I was already paying for hosting, and I spent H.O.U.R.S. yesterday trying to use a new site builder for uVinyl only to delete two websites! I had to e-mail my brother-in-law for help because, after 4 hours, I couldn't even figure out how to log in! (He e-mailed me back 10 mins. later that he'd taken care of it all).

I called my husband at work, crying and frustrated, then spent the rest of the day in the guest bedroom (no bad memories) watching movies on Netflix in my bathrobe.

Husband: "You know...."

Me, crossing my fingers: "Oh please say what I want you to say!"

Husband: "I don't think building a website is the sort of thing you should be responsible for doing yourself. It's like trying to learn a new job at step 26."

Listen, friends, it is wonderful to shoot for the stars and have high expectations. My website, when finished, will be amazing (if it matches my vision), I just had to admit that I could never do it myself.

Wall Re-do & Christ like Attributes

2011-01-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

I'm just going to admit it (not that I need to!)... I'm not perfect.

As a missionary for the LDS church, I spent hours learning the gospel of Jesus Christ in a book called Preach My Gospel. One of my favorite chapters in that book is titled "Christ like Attributes", and lists, describes, and helps you implement what they are. Lately I find myself remembering and repeating those Christ like attributes throughout the day when I get flare-ups of not-so-Christ-like attributes.

The other day I had one such flare up that was bad enough I decided those attributes needed to go on my wall where I can see them over and over again!

So I just finished a wall re-do including the much needed Christ like attributes:

Our living room now has a beautiful painting of Christ over the fireplace, and another painting of Buddhist monks on another wall, so I wanted to add some accent color from those paintings to the room, and continue the spiritual theme.

First up, our last name initial: The letter "O"!

I got the idea from another crafter to paint a canvas, stencil your letter, and hot glue yarn onto it for texture.

I wanted it to be a curly type of font, since "O" can seem a little boring, but my hubby said he preferred a simple "O" for the cleanliness. I agreed-- it seemed beautiful next to the abstract, textured painting, and reminded me of a simple ring and the eternity of a family.

Next step, adding chosen fabric behind some matching frames:

And for today's tutorial:

Christ like Attributes on a Frame

Materials:

Vinyl
Picture Frame (10" x 14" for $2.5 at Hobby Lobby)

Directions:

1. Prepare vinyl

(I hope you think this looks great... it took forever and left me with three finger cuts!)

2. Add vinyl to picture frame.

And it's just that simple!

Now I have a beautiful, meaningful, spiritual, personal collection of wall art!

It is so gratifying to create something so meaningful.

What inspires you?

Who doesn't like to decorate with birds???

2011-01-10T03:42:00.000-08:00

Recently I've had some fun designing animal things for friends and family. Here are a couple homeruns-- aren't they so cute?!?!

My sister put this owl in her children's room, and it has been a huge success for the kids!

And my sister-in-law used these birds in her bathroom:

And I think this cat silhouette I enhanced would be great for a chalkboard:

But I haven't found the right home for it!

Interested?

What animals would you like to see in vinyl added to the store?

Personalized Message Board

2011-01-06T06:28:00.000-08:00

Today's project: A personalized message board!

This project was so easy, inexpensive, and looked great. So worth a few steps!

Materials:

1 12"x12" wooden frame ($2 @ Hobby Lobby)
1 piece of 12"x12" scrapbook paper ($.60 @ Hobby Lobby)
Corkboard ($5 for 3 ft. at Hobby Lobby)
Vinyl Sayings
Tacky Glue
Scissors

Directions:

1. Cut your scrapbook paper into strips wide enough to cover the front of the frame

2. Cover the front of the frame with tacky glue

3. Cover the glue with paper strips

4. Add another layer of glue over the paper. The paper will probably begin to wrinkle under the moisture, so don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and smooth them out slowly with your finger!

5. Prepare your vinyl sayings

6. After paper has dried, add vinyl to the desired areas

7. Cut desired amount of corkboard

8. Superglue corkboard behind the frame opening

9. Add embellishments and enjoy!

To Do: Take a nap.

Decorative initial plate

2011-01-04T06:28:00.000-08:00

Hello!

With all the holiday parties, baking, and decorating going on I was so glad to have this Decorative Initial Plate this season!

My fabulous sister, Brett, brought the materials for this craft to a family get-together. We had so much fun making these plates with our sister and mom! It was so easy that we could make it and still talk and watch a movie... now that's a good craft : )

Materials:

Glass Plate (found at most craft stores or Wal-Mart in various sizes)
Fun fabric
Vinyl initial
Mod Podge
Craft Scissors

Directions:

1. Pick out your fabric!

My sister brought a storage container filled with pieces of holiday fabric... what a selection! I chose one with snowflakes that I could use all season long. Our other sister chose the red gingham so she could use it for Christmas and Valentine's Day! Great idea.

2. Add your initial to the back of the plate
Be sure to cut the vinyl initial as a mirror image so it can be applied to the back of the plate and still be legible!

3. Cover the back of the plate with a layer of Mod Podge.

Don't be afraid to go thick, but not too thick... it will dry clear! It just might take a while...

4. Add that fabric you picked out!

Smooth it out with your hands, and it will adjust to the circle-ness of the plate, don't worry!

5. Using craft scissors, cut the fabric away from the edge of the plate

6. Add another layer of Mod Podge to the fabric to seal it. Be sure to glue over the edge you just cut!

7. Let it dry for a few hours, and look at you go... you have a new plate!

I l.o.v.e. this new plate because it is a beautiful way to put out the holiday cookies I just have to make, but it is also perfect to take to parties or church! It's the perfect size for that desert you were asked to donate, but no one will go home with your plate! Or make one with your friend's initial to leave behind as a hostess gift!

Just be aware that this dish is hand wash only. Water will dissolve the glue between the plate and the fabric, so don't be surprised if you see a clean plate and wet fabric in the dishwasher!

make your own chalkboard clock

2010-12-28T14:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year, everybody!

uVinyl has been taking a little time off to celebrate the birth of our Saviour with our family, and hope you've been able to share this season with loved ones, too!

But now.... On with the show!

Chalkboard Clock

I was assigned my new sister-in-law, Sarah, as a Secret Santa this year. She has two small boys and a very chic house... so what to get her? Inspiration struck that this could be the perfect gift:

1. Everyone can use a clock

2. The black chalkboard matches anything

3. Chalkboard allows her to personalize

4. Can be used to write on as a time teaching tool for the kids

5. It is easily made, but doesn't necessarily look "homemade"

So here's how I did it...

Materials:

Circle of plywood (I bought a 10" circle from Hobby Lobby for $1)
Chalkboard vinyl (or spraypaint) to cover the wood
Clock mechanism (@ Hobby Lobby for $2.5, but you have to know the size you need. I used 1/4" shaft)
Ribbon
Chalk
Fabric Square
Hot Glue gun

Directions:

1. Apply the chalkboard vinyl to the wood circle

2. Draw lines down the middle and side of the board, to find the direct center.

3. Drill a hole!

4. Add the clock mechanism.

This is really easy... there are very good directions and a diagram on the back of the mechanism package

5. Cut matching lengths of ribbon and use the glue gun to glue one end to the back of the board and the other end to a piece of chalk and the extra fabric square.

6. Decorate the clock face

7. Hang and enjoy!

Now that I know how easy it is to drill a hole in something and turn it into a clock, I'll be doing a lot more of them. You know how some people have a wall of photos? I think we'll end up with a wall of fun clocks! Hehehe :)

make Curtains from a dropcloth

2010-12-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

Hey Ya'll!

I recently got the urge to re-do the living room I'd previously spent days decorating. Remember the tree trunk? That was part of it. Another part was to get new curtains for the opposite wall.

The curtains had been striped with different colors, which was just too much crazy color for the room. I wanted things to look more neutral and soft, so my sister suggested I try curtains that would blend to the wall, instead.

If you are have been in the blog-o-sphere for a while, you've probably seen drop-cloth curtains before, but I wanted to do something different. I love the decorative, full look of these draw-up curtains, and they were so easy to make!

Materials:

1 drop cloth ($20 @ Ace Hardware for 8' x 12')
Hot Glue gun
Ribbon
Ironing Board

Directions:

1. Drape the drop cloth across the ironing board, and fold over one end for a hem

2. Hot glue the hem down. (All four sides of a drop cloth are hemmed, thank goodness! And it is a great material for hot gluing)

3. Hang up the curtain!

4. Cut three (or however many you need) lengths of ribbon 2' long, and glue the center of each ribbon to the desired spot on the hung curtain.

5. Roll up the curtain and tie in a bow to enjoy the sun!

How easy was that? It took all of 10 mins. while I watched TV, and adds just the cozy, decorative look I wanted! I love them.

T-shirts!

2010-12-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

No humility here... I hit a home run on Christmas presents for my brother and brother-in-law this year by making them these awesome t-shirts!

(Good thing they don't read this blog... Wives: Shhhh!)

This one is the "Guitar Hero" shirt. I looked for a guitar image to cut and attach because my brother-in-law is crazy about the guitar, and got lucky to find this outline image. I arranged it to look like the letter "h", and added the "e-r-o" to turn it into guitar hero! I don't think he actually plays that game, but he does consider himself a guitar hero so it works :) And I have to say, I was pretty proud of the creativity!

Materials:

T-Shirt (I found these long-sleeve waffle shirts on sale for $5 at Old Navy)
Heat-transfer vinyl (Buy at my etsy store if you don't have your own vinyl cutter)
Iron
Ironing Board
Extra shirt, or other fabric

Directions:

1. Pre-warm the desired spot on your shirt with the iron. Be sure to get it good and hot!

2. Add the vinyl to the desired spot

3. Cover the vinyl with the extra t-shirt and iron over the t-shirt

4. Slowly peel the transfer plastic away.

Ironing times vary for different fabrics, so if your vinyl doesn't stay on the shirt try turning it inside-out and ironing from behind the t-shirt)

I asked my husband to model these t-shirts, and I think he had a good time doing it! Ben, you make these shirts look G.O.O.D.!

I love personalized gifts!

How to Turn a Tree Trunk into a table

2010-12-16T07:03:00.000-08:00

I saw this great idea on the Nate Berkus show a few weeks ago, and filed it away in the back of my mind. In the meantime I've been scouring antique stores and flea markets for new endtables for our living room. Um... lightbulb! Why not dust off that tree trunk idea? It is unique, brings some nature to your room, is unique, and inexpensive! All things that I L.O.V.E.

But it did take some effort to track down...

After calling several lumberyards I was finally given the number for a local sawmill that carries raw logs. I went there to pick out my custom log yesterday afternoon:

Imagine a large yard covered with tree logs, with an extensive (and loud!) carving station at one end and a single-wide trailer at another.

Me: "Hello....?"

Them: "Yes?"

Me: "Hi... I talked to Ben this morning about cutting a section of log for a table, and he suggested I come in to take a look."

Them: "Ok. We don't normally do that sort of thing, but if you already talked to Ben you can talk to him now. He's just out front on the forklift."

Me: Concerned look.

Them: "It's ok, the lift isn't running. It's safe to go talk to him."

Me: What's a forklift?!!?!?

I was lucky to track down a great guy, Ben, who was willing to go out of his way to show me around and help me accomplish the crazy idea.

I chose Maple. Ben explained that maple has a great inner design, wouldn't smell up the house, and grew thick enough for a good size table.

Then he grabbed a .... something or other machine.... to pick out the log we chose.

He suggested this log because it has a very unique, architectural design at the base. I had expected getting something smaller, but I love the base design on this log so much!

Ben cut my log to the desired 19" with a chainsaw

He suggested cutting an extra inch so that there would be enough room to sand down any rough edges later. I thought that was a great point!

My log!

I asked him how much it would be and he shrugged and said... "How 'bout $10?"

This thing was massive! My husband guesses it weighs about 300 lbs., and it wouldn't fit in my trunk! So Ben and another employee carried it to my front seat, then suggested I fill up that tire with air to compensate :)

I laid a protective hand over this log while driving, as if it was a precious child!

At home, husband and I rolled the log out of my car and into our house. I put down a rug pad I'd bought, and then decorated it!

After a month or so the trunk, now green, will dry out and crack. The bark will fall off, and we'll buff it up, add polish, and a glass top to make it really beautiful. For now it works as-is!

Husband grumbled a little bit at the strain of putting it up, and cracked some jokes about having a log in the house, but quieted up and applauded my genius after seeing online that log tables can sell for up to $1200 to $1600!

Go Suz!

*UPDATE* My husband called me from work this morning just after I woke up. His ringtone is a motorcycle humming, and at that moment I couldn't figure out what the noise was! I was actually thinking an electronic was broken, or someone was in our house. I laughed about it to him, and he suggested, "Maybe someone was in to cut down our log!" Har-de-har-har.

Nativity Block

2010-12-14T07:30:00.000-08:00

After the vinyl snowflakes, vinyl cookie advent calender and the vinyl Christmas tree you may have guessed that I like to use vinyl to put a new twist on old favorites. Well, here's another one:

Christmas Nativity Block

What can I say? We are newlyweds who don't have an "official" nativity yet! It's called improvising, people!

Materials:

Glass Block ($5 @ Lowes)

I have had trouble finding these glass blocks. They are beautiful and wonderful for decorating and crafting, but not widely used for construction any more. Only 1 of 4 hardware stores in my area carried them, so take the time to call ahead if you plan on getting some! They can be bought individually or in boxes of 8

2" wire-edged ribbon ($5 for 90 ft. @ Hobby Lobby)
Nativity vinyl

I have started selling this nativity vinyl decal in my Etsy store

Scissors

Directions:

1. Apply vinyl to desired location on glass block

2. Using the scissors, cut the length of ribbon you desire

3. Attach the ribbon around the edge of the glass block

And you're done!

Enjoy!

These blocks are very stable, so they can be placed on their own to decorate a small space, or could even be used as a creative, decorative doorstop or paperweight!

Vinyl Christmas Tree, for small spaces or children!

2010-12-11T13:12:00.000-08:00

*** Check here for your opportunity to win $25 worth of vinyl from my store! ***

When I got my vinyl cutter I vowed to never be one of those people with vinyl on everything. But let's face it.... vinyl is cool!

We will be out of town for Christmas this year, so getting a "real" Christmas tree was not a priority for us. In fact, it was my husband who suggested we use an old shower door for a vinyl Christmas tree! Good idea, honey :)

My amazing sister-in-law had this great idea to let her two little boys pick out their own miniature tree to decorate for Christmas. They boys stick to playing with the toys on "their" tree, and leave the beautiful "grown-up" tree alone.

I think doing this vinyl tree would be another great way to do that-- it is indestructable, and

kids can even draw on the glass

(or whatever background) with dry-erase markers to decorate and re-decorate the tree all season long!

This was also a perfect idea because we don't happen to have a lot of spar room in our cute, little house ;)

Materials:

Vinyl Tree
Vinyl Star
Shower Door
Ornaments
Suction Cups

Directions:

1. Apply vinyl to shower door

2. Place door in desired location

3. Attach ornaments with suction cups

Hahaha... Isn't it awesome? All it takes is a little creativity, and vinyl can be used in the most incredible ways! I love it!

Happy Holidays!

New Giveaway and Christmas vinyl

2010-12-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

Some new Christmas vinyl ideas for you to think about while you're here...

Last name decoration in fun snowy font and Christmas colors

Holly Star with berries

Street light with Santa hat

Wouldn't any of those look great on that empty wall space?!?!

All are available on my website!

Christmas Message Tiles

2010-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

I decided to make tiles with Christmas messages for presents and decorations this year, and now my house is filled with them.... They were just so easy, so cute, and so true!

And I love that these cute, easy, true message tiles fit perfectly into those odd spaces...

Materials:

1 tile (6x6 $.60 at Lowes)
12-gauge wire (from my jewelry-making collection)
Ribbon ($1 at Hobby Lobby)
Epoxy glue (JB Weld $5 at Lowes) (This is an awesome material to keep around. It is the only adhesive that will affix to glass, tile, wire, cloth, plastic, etc. We use it ALL THE TIME!)
Paper plate
Wire cutters
Toothpick
Vinyl message

Directions:

1. Apply cut vinyl message to tile front

2. Cut wire with wirecutters to desired length

3. Wrap the wire around your finger or a pencil to create a loop design

4. Prepare epoxy according to package directions on the paper plate

5. Using the toothpick (or other disposable thing.... nails, etc.), apply the epoxy to the tile in the desired handle location, and on top of the wire. (Allow a few hours for epoxy to dry)

6. Attach a ribbon for extra decoration!

7. Place and enjoy!

And for around $1, these can't be beat as personal decorations or gifts!

Vinyl Snowflakes for Christmas

2010-12-04T07:16:00.000-08:00

One of the downsides to living in the south is that my Michigan born-and-bred husband doesn't get to see snow regularly. I decided to surprise him one day by bringing some snow into our house!

How do you get snowflakes in a house, you ask?

With vinyl!

I made two different snowflake templates and cut them out of white and silver vinyl in different sizes. I really like the effect, and cut out out enough to plaster them over our fireplace wall and another wall in our dining room!

It added the perfect fun touch to our holiday decorating!

Want to buy your own snowlfakes? e-mail me or visit my esty store for information!

Snowflakes in North Carolina make me happy :)

How to Make a Cookie Advent Calendar

2010-12-01T11:28:00.000-08:00

Who needs another advent calender to hang on the wall?

Well... everyone. They are sort of really fun, so why not a way to count down to Christmas in a new way?

Introducing.......

The Christmas Cookie Countdown Calender!

Materials:

Cookie Jar (bought at Hobby Lobby for $2.25 during 50% off week)
Chalkboard vinyl
Vinyl decal
Cloth

Directions:

1. Rub the glass with a cloth so the vinyl will adhere (for some reason I've noticed vinyl doesn't stick to glass very well. The glass retains moisture, so rubbing it with cloth beforehand helps a lot!)

2. Apply the vinyl to the desired spot on your cookie jar (Visit my store or e-mail me if you want to order your own vinyl)

3. Add chalkboard vinyl to the cookie jar

4. Add cookies and enjoy!

Mmmmmm.... Tasty :)

Embellished, personalized tote bag

2010-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

Another sister-in-law had a birthday last week, and I had just as much fun making her birthday gift! In fact, I was so excited about these projects the worst part was waiting until after their birthdays to post about them!
My sister-in-law, Marie, lived in Denmark for 18 months as a missionary, and still loves the country a ton. It's close to Christmas so it would have been easy to make a decoration-type thing for her, but I believe birthdays should be personal, so making something reminiscent of Denmark was a no-brainer.

And so the Denmark tote was born....

Materials:

Tote Bag
Heat-transfer vinyl design
Embellishments
Iron

Directions:

1. Cut out your heat transfer design

Or use fabric paint for your design

2. Pre-iron the spot you will add the image to

Be sure the iron is on the hottest setting, but without steam.

3. Place the heat transfer vinyl in the desired place, shiny side up. Place a thin layer of material over it, and iron until it has adhered.

4. Add embellishments.

5. Enjoy your new personalized purse!

I've never been to Denmark, but, Marie, if you don't like this bag don't be ashamed to tell me-- I'll take it back and use it myself! Maybe I'll make myself a matching one with the NYC boroughs on it... I just love the idea of a state/ country displayed like this! Maybe on picture frame glass next....?

*UPDATE*

I loved this project so much I've added it to my etsy store! Check it out here :)

Antique Ironing board turned to fantastic table

2010-11-29T08:05:00.000-08:00

Years ago I saw a decorating show that used a technique of decoupaging book pages to transform and personalize bedroom furniture. I L.O.V.E. that idea because I love to read, and waited for years until I had my own home and furniture to decorate.

When we moved into our first home, I decided I wanted our living room to be casual, but our dining room to be... special. The dining room has large glass doors to the patio on one side, a built-in bookshelf covering another wall, a widow to the kitchen on the third wall, and a completely empty fourth wall.

So what to do with that empty fourth wall to make the room homey and special?

I, fortunately, live in antiques heaven and scoured tons of local antiques stores searching for unique and up-cycle-able items for our home. I literally (Ben: "You said 'literally' so it must be true") screamed when I saw this antique ironing board folded up against a wall of one! I had instant inspiration that it would be a P.E.R.F.E.C.T. table for that wall-- tall, architectural, and shallow.

I bought that wooden, antique ironing board for a mere $18. Can you say S.T.E.A.L.?

Materials:

Ironing Board, or another wooden piece of furniture
An old book
Glue
Foam paintbrush

Directions:

1. Tear the pages out of the book, and rip them into differently-shaped pieces. Keep the pieces big, though, so there is less glueing to do to cover the furniture surface. Then use the book cover for a new secret compartment book!

2. Brush a thin layer of glue on the surface. Add a book page and another layer of glue over top of the book page.

I originally used spray glue. Don't make that mistake. I covered the area with newspaper, but the glue still sprayed E.V.E.R.Y.W.H.E.R.E. and I had newspaper stuck to me for a week.

3. Be sure to layer your book pages in unique, textural ways so the finished look is interesting.

4. Review your piece and use the paint brush to smooth out any air bubbles or to add extra glue to areas that aren't sticking as well.

I admit this project took a lot of time, but I am so thrilled with how I did it and the final product. I added a clothesline to the top of the wall with some honeymoon pictures attached with clothespins to continue the laundry theme. I just L.O.V.E. the way it turned out, and have made two more pieces of furniture (nightstands) because I loved that technique so much!

yay.

Awesome earring holder from a picture frame

2010-11-27T14:49:00.000-08:00

One of my new sisters-in-law has a birthday this week, and I had a ton of fun making a gift for her! She is very stylish, so I wanted to make something accessory-ish for her. I saw the idea for making an earring holder from a picture frame from Kari at Handmade Mommy a while ago, and knew this was the perfect thing for Sarah! (At least I hope it was.)

Materials:

Picture Frame ( I like the 4 x 6)
Fabric
Ribbon
Scissors
Clear Tape

Directions:

1. Cut out fabric about 1" extra than the glass from the picture frame, and cut the edge off.

2. Tape each side of the fabric to the glass using the clear tape.

3. Cut ribbon twice the width of the glass

4. Tie two knots in the ribbon about 1.5" apart

5. Tape each end of the ribbon to the back of the glass, about 1/3 down from the top of the glass.

6. Attach the glass back to the picture frame

Oila! Doesn't that look great?!

I pored over which fabric, colors, frame, etc. to use for her gift because even Sarah's house is F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S., and I knew the only way she'd like it or use it is if it matches, so I constantly looked at pictures of her bathroom, hoping for a match!

But, I have to say, I L.O.V.E. how it turned out! How could she NOT like it?! The knots create texture for the earrings to hang from, and I added a pair of earrings I made for an extra touch.

Simple and fun to make, functional, and beautiful... This may become my new go-to gift.

Black Friday Shopping Guide

2010-11-25T08:29:00.000-08:00

As my husband said the other day, "I can't believe we have a national holiday for shopping." and as his colleague in Norway noted, "Yes... you have two holidays. One for Thanksgiving and one for Black Friday."

Weeeeeeeelllllllll.... It is fun to shop on Black Friday, but it's not actually a national holiday. Some people take it seriously enough for a national holiday, though, which is why you should be a boyscout this year.

That means B.E. P.R.E.P.A.R.E.D.

1. Be Prepared.
Go through coupons and sale ads before your nap on Thanksgiving to decide which stores will best fit your time, and which items you want to shop for in each place.

See all online shopping deals by category HERE

Traffic will be miserable, so having a plan of where to go and when to can cut down on unnecessary traffic stress.
Stores count on making money by shoppers buying things on a whim, so don't get caught up with the sales hype and excitement!

4: What stores don't tell you

Check out this full story from CNN Finance:

Stores may open their doors at 5:00 a.m., but that doesn't mean their deals start that early! They may hold out until noon, but you'll probably still buy something for the effort of getting up at dag-nabbit 4:30 am! They win.

High-ticket items on sale may only have a few in stock that qualify. If you plan on buying a large or expensive item, be sure to get right to it and put it on hold or call ahead and find out about quantities to save some time.

High-ticket items, typically electronics, may offer deals on products of lower quality than their standard models. Sometimes it's true: You get what you pay for. Beware of derivatives!

DON'T ASSUME DEAL MATCHING! Stores that would ordinarily price match may not on special shopping days.

3. It's ok to ask for help.

iPhone apps can make finding deals and shopping easier, faster, and more fun:

BradsDeals

Black Friday Deals

TGI Black Friday

4. Avoid Black Friday
Know that you can avoid the Black Friday stress at certain stores that have posted alternate sales hours:

Khols: Thanksgiving Day

Toys-R-Us: 10 p.m. Thanksgiving night

Amazon.com: Last Monday

Some stores, like Best Buy are even offering the same Black Friday Doorbusters online! It pays to check it out:

How to cash in on the web

Check out more holiday shopping secrets and news from CNN.com!

Happy shopping!

Fudge-y chocolate no-bake cookies

2010-11-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

Listen, I know everyone loves their Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies, but I didn't have any peanut butter around and I needed to make cookies asap....

Frantic (yes, some people get frantic when making cookies), I used chocolate chips instead of peanut butter, and these cookies turned out to be A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. Just give them a try!

Ingredients:

1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 stick of butter (I used soy butter, and they turned out just like normal with 1/2 the calories)
1/2 cup of milk (I used soy milk, and couldn't tell a difference.)
pinch of salt
1 cup chocolate chip
1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups rolled oats

Directions:

In a saucepan, combine sugars, butter, milk, and salt.
Stir and bring to a boil (med. heat... you don't want to burn the sugar) for 1 minute
Remove from heat
Add chocolate chips and vanilla
Stir until smooth
Return to heat, add rolled oats
Remove from heat and cool slightly (don't allow to cool completely, or the sugar will harden before you're ready for it!)
Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper (or tin foil sprayed with non-stick spray if you don't have wax paper, as I had to do)

The result is beautiful, chocolatey goodness. These cookies have a fudge-like consistency, which tastes just amazing! Both a cookies and candy, you can't go wrong.

Don't be afraid to add some variation to an old favorite recipe... it might become a NEW favorite recipe! This is how I've discovered most of the foods I love, only problem is that I rarely have a recipe to follow or give out :)

2-step Glass Jar Decoration

2010-11-21T15:43:00.000-08:00

3 Pieces....

2 Steps....

1 Beautiful decoration.

A woman at our church taught a group of women how to make this very simple, very elegant, very inexpensive decoration, and I have to admit I was a little jealous that it wasn't my fantastic idea, but hey, it happens! At least I get to share it with you :)

Materials:

1 glass candlestick holder ($1 Dollar Store)
1 large glass container ($1 Dollar Store)
E-6000 glue ($6/ entire tube craft store)
Embellishments

Directions:

1. Using the glue, glue a thick layer to the top edge of the candlestick holder

2. Attach the bottom of the large glass container to the candlestick holder

3. Fill the large container with chosen decorations

It doesn't get more simple or more elegant than that! And for only around $2.5?!??!?!

And it has so many functions...

More uses:

- Fill with water and fake flowers (will float) for spring

- Fill with fake fruit for summer

- Fill with layers of colored beans for fall

- Fill with beautiful Christmas balls for winter

- Add candy for a birthday party

- Add a thick candle and give as a gift

Have fun!

Post-It Note Holder

2010-11-20T06:24:00.000-08:00

Hey Hey Hey!!!!

(That's me being really excited to share this idea with you.)

How many people in your life do you have to make presents for this year? Teachers? Church leaders? Neighbors? You can't be expected to buy all those gifts!

Here is a really F.U.N. idea for a gift that you can make for any of those random... er, special people in yours or your kid's life.

Materials:

Decorative Paper
Scissors
3.5 x 5 plastic photo frame (the kind with the stand attached)
Embellishments (I'm using ribbon and hang tags)
Post-it Note stack pulled into 1/2 or 1/3 (each section will go on it's own frame, so you can use 1 pad for multiple gifts)

Directions:

1. Cut paper to fit the size of your frame

2. Insert the paper to photo frame

Add a piece of decorative paper to th back, also, for a finished look.

3. Add embellishments to the top of the frame

The stand should be at the top of the photo frame.

4. Add a section of post-it notes to the middle of the frame

Now you have a really cute post-it note holder that anyone would love to have.

Photo frame: $1 Wal-Mart

Scrapbook Paper: $.60 (full sheet) Hobby Lobby

Ribbon: $1 (full spool) Hobby Lobby

Happy crafting!

Vinyl Giveaway Winner!

2010-11-19T05:45:00.000-08:00

Meet Shana-- our latest vinyl giveaway winner!

Congratulations, Shana. Please e-mail susannah@uvinyl.com so we can talk about your new vinyl!

Thanks to everyone who commented! I am so excited to share this blog with those of you who have joined, and really appreciate all the comments about the store. I will also try to add the items or quotes you suggested!

*If you are interested in receiving an item you commented about, e-mail susannah@uvinyl.com with your request and I'll give you a blogging 20% off discount plus free shipping*

I'm going to get started on Shana's vinyl, and have a new craft post for you tomorrow!

Rosette Barrettes-- My first attempt

2010-11-17T09:22:00.000-08:00

I L.O.V.E. the things people are doing with crafted rosettes now; chunk necklaces, t-shirt embellishments, headbands, purses, etc. I think it is such a cute, unique way to personalize something that could have been... well, B.O.R.I.N.G.

Just one issue... As much as I love the look, and as easy as it's said to be, I've never tried making rosettes before! I usually leave that to my awesomely crafty sister, but she lives too far away now for me to rely on her for my every need. Time to grow up.

So I found this tutorial on making rosettes into all sorts of fun things, and decided to bring along some materials to make this small craft at my hotel room (that's dedication. Don't you think?)

I actually got my hot-glue gun through TSA, but didn't attempt some scissors. Step 1: Make friends with the people at the check-in desk!

Materials:

Chosen fabric
Scissors
Hot-glue gun
Hair clips

Directions:

1. Cut fabric into strips. The wider and longer the strips the thicker the rosette will be

2. Tie a knot into one end of the strip

3. Wrap the loose end of the strip around the knot, folding in the extra material after the knot. Twist the strip randomly to create variety and volume.

4. Dot hot glue every turn or so to keep the rosette in place

You could also sew thread through the rosette to keep it in place, but I couldn't bring a needle in my carry-on!

5. Glue the hair clip end to the finished rosette

6. Admire your finished work!

Oh so cute... so G.L.A.D. I finally learned to do this! I'm going to start rosette-ing everything!

*UPDATE: I loved these hair barrettes so much I changed my outfit to match them and kept two in my hair. My husband came back to the hotel after his meetings that day and, while giving me my hello kiss, stopped and said, "Are those new?" Love it!

bOOOOOOOOOOring!

2010-11-16T15:46:00.000-08:00

That was supposed to read "BORING!"

Just so you know.

I'm a little bored.....

My husband and I love to travel, and we're lucky that he has a job that requires lots of travel that I occasionally join him for. This week he had a business trip to Orangeburg, NY (just north of Manhattan). I spent a long time living in NYC as a missionary for my church, so I came along and we spent an entire day visiting some of my favorite hang out spots.

But now his meetings have started, leaving me in a hotel room. It's not too bad since I have tons of fun research to do on my laptop (Kari from Handmade Mommy e-yelled at me for working during my vacation), but we previously lived at a hotel for a month and the previous boredom is starting to set in.

SO I searched online (gotta love the internet) for fun things to do in a hotel room.

Here are some of my favorites:

#20: Look out the window
#14: Have bathtub races with the soap wrappers, cardboard covers for water glasses, and the foil packets of Coffeemate.
#6: Use the hotel stationary to write letters to yourself
#22: Have your own fashion show by wearing the hotel towels, bathrobe, pillowcases, etc.
#7: Sleep
#3: Make a hat out of toilet paper

I just had a realization:

People who spend all day in a hotel room are N.U.T.S.

Also,

People who spend all day in a hotel room and research ways to have fun in it are B.I.G.G.E.R.N.U.T.S.

Do you have any suggestions for me?

Vinyl Giveaway!

2010-11-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

*This giveaway is currently CLOSED.*

Hey F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S. vinyl decal fans! Like what you see here and interested in your own vinyl to decorate with? It is so easy, and creates a fantastic look for any season, holiday, or room. Just check out the awesome design Kari came up with on Handmade Mommy!

uVinyl has supplied the vinyl decorations currently featured on Handmade Mommy, and we've decided to team up for a giveaway to one of you, too!

We are currently hosting a giveaway for any item from the uVinyl Store , up to a $30 value, to a reader.

Each visitor has three opportunities to enter, and the winning comment will be chosen at random (so be sure to leave a contact e-mail!)

How to enter:

1) Visit the uVinyl Store and leave a comment with your favorite item, or leave a comment with an idea for something you'd like to see!
2) Follow this blog and leave a comment that you are a follower
3) Follow Handmade Mommy and leave a comment HERE saying you have started following

I am so excited to share what I love with all of you, and can't wait to see your comments! Good luck!

Decorate with your own personal photo!

2010-11-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

A personal photo made into vinyl art on an old shower door using Inkscape:

I L.O.V.E. this idea. It incorporates so much of what I love about using vinyl decals to craft: It re-purposes something (which makes it affordable), adds 3-D art to an otherwise bare wall, and immortalizes a very personal moment in our lives.

Who wouldn't want a beautiful, meaningful photo turned into immortalized artwork?!

A tutorial on using Inkscape to outline a photo for vinyl:

Step 1: Pick out your photo

(This is from our wedding day. Aren't we cute?! I chose this picture because we looked so natural and in love. A great reminder of that perfect day to see all the time!)

Step 2: Download Inkscape photo editing software for FREE!

http://inkscape.org/download/

Step 3:

Import your picture into Inkscape

Step 4:

From the top menu, choose Path and Trace Bitmap

Step 5:

Increase or decrease the Brightness option and click "Update" until you are satisfied.

Step 6:

Drag the bitmap (black) outline away from photo and delete original photo so only the bitmap is left.

Step 7:

Go back to Path and choose "Simplify" This will smooth out some of the lines of your image. If you prefer the original bitmap from Step 6, then skip this step.

Step 8:

Save this image and upload to a vinyl design program.

Step 9:

Apply to desired surface.

I used one of the glass sliding doors I previously took off of our shower. I am so glad I saved those doors! I simply unscrewed the handle/towel holder, cleaned it, and applied the vinyl. It was the perfect size to make a real statement on our wall!

If you L.O.V.E. the look and idea of this vinyl-ized photo, but don't have the energy to create it yourself you can order one here.

Have fun with it! Play around with different photos! Adding photos to your space can fill it with love and good memories, but try something a little more out-of-the-picture-frame!

Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner designer!

Initial Letter Necklace!!

2010-11-11T08:01:00.000-08:00

After seeing the necklace Heidi Klum wears of the first initial of her children, I have wanted one! I don't have children, but someday.... I will. And I will also have one of those necklaces!

Until then, though, I found a great way to make my own with mine and my husband's initials.

(I happen to believe that the best things about crafting are finding something you love and re-making it yourself with a personal flare for less money. Come on... who doesn't like that?)

I was blog scavenging the other day and found this amazing post on how to make a Book Page Necklace. I immediately added the tutorial to my "To Craft" list, because it is AWESOME! I'm tweaking it a little bit, though, to make it more "me", by adding the initials from the Heidi necklace.

Materials:

A book page
Necklace chain
Jump rings
Flat metal pendants
Scissors
Pen
Tacky Glue

Directions:

1. Trace each flat pendant on the book page TWICE

2. Cut out each shape

3. Glue the cut-outs to each side of the metal pendants

4. Cut out vinyl letters for each initial and apply to each pendant

(Yes our initials are "B" and "S"... but we laugh about it!)

5. Cover each finished side with another layer of tacky glue to cement it together

6. Add the pendants to your necklace chain

I decided to add a vinyl heart cut in half on each of my initial pendants since they represent my husband and I. I love that this necklace is cool, home-made, and personalized on EACH SIDE of the pendants! I love it. I love it. I.L.O.V.E.I.T.

What do you think?

DIY Chandelier!

2010-11-10T06:54:00.000-08:00

*AS soon as we hit 20 followers I'll start doing giveaways! Tell your friends to join!*

Ok, not exactly a chandelier, but it sort of looks like one and beautifies any space!

Our house is pretty limited in light. There are a few large windows, but we're surrounded by trees so not much light comes through them. Almost all of our installed lights are recessed, which also doesn't produce much light. Unfortunately, husband I really like to see each other!

So I started on a quest to add more lighting to our house and make it beautiful. Functional, personal, and beautiful. That's what we're about! (Sometimes husband has to remind me about the functional part.) I found a tutorial online for a DIY chandelier using glass balls, but it involved complex wiring and installation, and expensive glass balls. No way, Jose!

It may not be perfect, but I can make that my own self!

Materials:

Christmas Balls
Fishing Line
Hot Glue Gun
White Thumbtacks

Directions:

1. Separate the silver top from the glass ball

2. Separate the silver hook from the base

3. Using the hot glue gun, attach the silver hook to the opening of the glass ball

4. Attach fishing line to the silver hook at the desired length

5. Tie a loop in the free end of the fishing line and attach the hanging ball to the ceiling with a thumbtack

Tip: Make as many hanging balls as possible, and hang them at different lengths to create a full, chandelier effect.

I bought a lightbulb attached to its own wire and plug to hang in the middle of my glass balls, but it didn't really work. Oh well, you try.... So this project didn't create a lot of extra light for me, but it did add a wonderful vertical art element to my dining room and reflects the natural light from the opposite windows!

Final say: I L.O.V.E. this easy project!

Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner decorator!

-Susannah

Let's Celebrate AUTUMN!

2010-11-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

I am not one to go all-out for Halloween, but Thanksgiving I LOVE! I love the idea of celebrating a holiday based on being thankful and recognizing your blessings. I, personally, have so many wonderful things in my life I tend to overlook. I love that at least once a year I'm forced to remember it! My first autumn craft is this fantastic picture frame!

Materials:

1 picture frame (I used a 10x14 so the wreath would fit inside)
I grapevine wreath
1/2 yard of fall fabric
Matching ribbon
Scissors

Directions:

1. Cut fabric to fit frame and attach it behind glass

2. Wrap ribbon around the top of the wreath and attach the tails of ribbon behind picture frame glass

3. Cut your own vinyl design to match your holiday mood :)

4. Attach the vinyl! (I love this part. The vinyl decoration makes such a difference, and it feels so good to see how it all turns out!)

Do this after attaching the wreath because you want to make sure it is centered inside the wreath. Find the right spot, then just flip the wreath around to get it out of the way!

5. Attach more ribbon to the top for hanging

6. Hang and enjoy!

I love this reminder to Give Thanks every time I enter or leave my house! And that's what crafting is about. Loving what you do, and feeling happy with it repeatedly.

Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner designer!

Love,

Susannah

How to Make a Book with a Secret Compartment

2010-11-05T05:46:00.000-07:00

My nephew just turned 9-years-old, and I thought this craft would make the perfect gift. He is very clever, has two younger siblings, and is always looking for ways to keep his "science experiments" and special things secure. Besides, doesn't every kid need a secret compartment book?

I first saw this craft on a TV show, and can't, unfortunately, remember the name of the show or the crafter who designed it. Sorry!

*Disclaimer: This is NOT an original idea!*

Being one of the young, newlywed couples of America that doesn't own a VHS, I started my search for these items at our local Goodwill. I was excited to see a basket of VHS tapes being sold. I picked out a good one (not that it matters), and took a chance that they would also have a book I could use. I planned on searching for a beautiful book at an antique store, but got lucky to find an entire section of our Goodwill on hardcover books! I'm so glad shopping for these items was quick, easy, and inexpensive.

Notice that the book I chose to make into a secret compartment was titled A House of Secrets. I think it is so appropriate, and I'm sure my nephew will love that!

Materials:

1 vintage (or simply cool-looking) hard-cover book without the cover

TIP: Try to find a book that is just larger in thickness, width, and height of the VHS case, so it will fit snuggly inside.

1 VHS case
Hot glue gun
X-acto knife

Directions:

1. Using the X-acto knife, cut the pages away from the book cover, leaving the cover intact.

2. Tear the protective cover sheet off the VHS case

3. Hot glue the VHS case to the spine of the book cover

4. Hot glue the VHS sides to the flaps of the book cover

This is what it should look like now that the VHS case is attached:

5. Add your treasures and enjoy!

Hope you enjoy this simple craft. I think I'll make a few more for the other kids in my family!

Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner designer!

Love,

Susannah

The greatest store-- Boulevard!

2010-11-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went on a shopping trip to Charlotte for one reason: To go to this great store, Boulevard! This place is amazing, and so worth the drive!

It is a large, warehouse-style shop that rents booths to local artists. Their artists have the most creative, amazing products. I was in heaven!

Boulevard is constantly in the press as the greatest place to shop, they are loved by the community for the reputation they bring, and offer twice-monthly gallery crawls!

I think I'm in love.

Should I rent a space here....?

Redecorate and Personalize a Shadow Box!

2010-11-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

I went through Hobby Lobby yesterday looking for inspiration, and found a project I got so excited about!

This redecorated shadow box looks beautiful, is personalizable, and inexpensive!

I chose this quote by H.L. Mencken because, as a newlywed in our first house, I love decorating with things that remind us of our love and how blessed we are. This quote really spoke to me, in particular, because my husband and I really value intelligence and sometimes forget that love should be playful, fun, and unexplainable.

I bought a shadow box with my 40% off coupon, bought fake flowers to insert for 50% off, used leftover paint, blank copy paper, and whipped up a great quote in vinyl! I am all for beautiful things that don't cost an arm and leg, and only take 30 mins!

Materials:

Shadow Box
Fake flowers (or something else to fill the shadow box)
Pain and paint supplies (optional)
Paper or photo to cover back of shadow box
Vinyl quote or image to decorate front glass

Instructions:

Add your vinyl quote or image

2. Paint the edges of shadow box

3. Add inside decoration

4. Re-attach back of box with paper, photo, et .

5. Enjoy!

This shadow box can be hung on a wall, and I thought would also be perfect as a decoration in a baby room. Put the baby's name and birthday on the front glass, a beautiful picture against the back, and paint it in the baby room's colors!

Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner decorator!

Love,

Susannah

Leftover Halloween Candy Recipes

2010-11-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Day-After-Halloween, everybody! I hope you enjoyed your SPOOKY weekend :) I was super excited to give away candy this year (our first year in our own house), but we only had a few trick-or-treaters. Now we're stuck (relative word... I know) with a ton of leftover candy! (Even if you don't have leftover candy, who can resist buying perfectly good discounted Halloween Candy the day after?)

I found these great recipes for using leftover candy after watching The Today Show this morning.

Candy Corn and Pretzel Bark
York Peppermint Pattie Brownies
Dulce de Leche Snickers Terrine
Frozen Reese's Banana Pops

I have to admit I'm most excited to try the Frozen Banana Pops. I'm usually not a fan of this fruit, but I think candy ought to help! My husband will love coming home to these today!

Have a great day. And remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner decorator!

Love,